Standard Occupational Classification (SOC): Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary

Nursing instructors and teachers, postsecondary in healthcare are educators who are responsible for teaching nursing courses at the college or university level. They typically have advanced degrees in nursing and clinical experience as a registered nurse (RN).

They may teach a wide range of nursing courses, such as basic nursing skills, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and advanced practice nursing. They may also conduct research in their areas of expertise and publish their findings in scholarly journals.

Nursing instructors and teachers work in a variety of postsecondary institutions, such as colleges, universities, and technical schools. They may also work in continuing education programs for practicing nurses. They are responsible for creating and delivering curriculum, evaluating student progress, and providing guidance and mentorship to students.

To become a nursing instructor or teacher at the postsecondary level, one typically needs a master’s or doctorate degree in nursing, along with a valid RN license and several years of clinical experience. Some institutions require a doctorate degree and/or an advanced degree or certification in nursing education. They also may require certification or licensure by the state board of nursing or a professional nursing organization. Additionally, they need to keep their knowledge updated and maintain their nursing license.